Health

Recurrent herpes gestationis with postpartum flare: a case report

Article Abstract:

Herpes gestationis is an uncommon skin problem which can occur during pregnancy and the postpartum period. The disorder is characterized by vesiculobullous (blister-like) lesions and may be difficult to diagnose. A case is reported of a 31-year-old woman who developed the disorder during her sixth pregnancy. Pruritus (itching) spread over the trunk and extremities during the third trimester, with little response to antihistamines or topical steroids. A healthy infant was delivered at term. Two days later, the woman developed a blister-like lesion on the sole of the foot, with additional lesions occurring within four weeks. The patient responded to oral steroids, and the diagnosis of herpes gestationis was confirmed by biopsy. The woman was known to have the disorder during the first pregnancy as well, and similar lesions had occurred in succeeding pregnancies. Severity of the disease was apparently less in each succeeding pregnancy, as lower doses of steroids were necessary. Four of the six pregnancies resulted in live births. The placenta was examined after the last three pregnancies, and results suggested that placental involvement may have preceded skin lesions. Placental involvement was associated with the birth of smaller infants. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Pregnancy after cardiac transplantation

Article Abstract:

A 26-year-old woman who had a heart transplant four years earlier successfully carried a pregnancy to term and delivered the baby vaginally. During her pregnancy she took cyclosporine, prednisone and azathioprine. She developed gestational diabetes, which was managed by controlling her diet. Her blood pressure was normal until the third trimester. Labor was induced when she was 40.5 weeks pregnant because of the high blood pressure and evidence of insufficient kidney functioning. She received an epidural anesthetic during labor. She delivered a healthy baby and showed no indication of further complications from the pregnancy.

Pregnancy after avascular necrosis of the femur complicating Gaucher's disease

Article Abstract:

Doctors report a successful vaginal delivery in a pregnant woman with Gaucher's disease and a hip disorder called avascular necrosis. Gaucher's disease is a metabolic disease caused by an enzyme deficiency. She was treated before and after the pregnancy with enzyme replacement therapy.